Chop Suey is a beloved dish that brings together a mix of colorful vegetables, tender meat, and a savory sauce, all stir-fried to perfection. This Chinese-American classic is a go-to for busy weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying meal. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also highly customizable, allowing you to use whatever ingredients you have on hand.
Why You’ll Love Chinese Chop Suey
Chinese Chop Suey is the perfect dish for anyone who loves a good stir-fry. It’s a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables while enjoying a flavorful, well-balanced meal. The combination of crisp-tender veggies, succulent meat, and a savory sauce makes this dish a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s versatile—you can make it with chicken, beef, pork, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
Ingredients for Chinese Chop Suey
To make a delicious Chinese Chop Suey, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb of protein (chicken, beef, pork, shrimp, or tofu), sliced into thin strips
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 1 cup celery, sliced diagonally
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced into strips
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 1 cup snow peas
- 1/2 cup bamboo shoots, sliced
- 1/2 cup water chestnuts, sliced
- 1 cup cabbage, shredded (optional)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare Chinese Chop Suey:
- Wok or large skillet: For stir-frying the ingredients.
- Sharp knife: For slicing the vegetables and protein.
- Cutting board: To prepare your ingredients.
- Measuring spoons: To ensure the correct balance of flavors.
- Mixing bowl: For combining the sauce ingredients.
How to Make Chinese Chop Suey
Follow these steps to create your Chop Suey:
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch with the chicken or vegetable broth. Stir until the cornstarch is fully dissolved and set aside.
- Cook the Protein: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced protein of your choice and stir-fry until cooked through. Remove from the wok and set aside.
- Stir-Fry the Vegetables: In the same wok, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the onion and garlic and stir-fry until fragrant. Then, add the carrots, celery, bell peppers, and snow peas. Stir-fry for a few minutes until the vegetables are crisp-tender.
- Add the Remaining Vegetables: Add the bamboo shoots, water chestnuts, cabbage (if using), and bean sprouts to the wok. Continue to stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes.
- Combine Everything: Return the cooked protein to the wok and pour in the sauce. Stir everything together, ensuring the sauce evenly coats the vegetables and protein. Let the mixture simmer for a couple of minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Season and Serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Tips for the Perfect Chop Suey
- Prep All Ingredients Before Cooking: Chop Suey comes together quickly, so it’s important to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking.
- Use High Heat: Stir-frying is best done over high heat to quickly cook the ingredients and retain their texture and color.
- Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: For the best texture, stir-fry the vegetables just until they are crisp-tender.
Variations on Chinese Chop Suey
- Vegetarian/Vegan Chop Suey: Substitute tofu or tempeh for the meat and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Make sure to choose a vegan oyster sauce or simply increase the soy sauce.
- Spicy Chop Suey: Add a teaspoon of chili garlic sauce or a few slices of fresh chili peppers to give your Chop Suey a spicy kick.
- Seafood Chop Suey: Use shrimp, scallops, or a mix of seafood for a delicious twist on the traditional recipe.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If you have any leftover Chop Suey, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a wok or skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to refresh the sauce.
Perfect Pairings for Chinese Chop Suey
Chop Suey is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides:
- Steamed White or Brown Rice: A classic pairing that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fried Rice: For an extra indulgent meal, serve Chop Suey with a side of fried rice.
- Lo Mein Noodles: Toss cooked noodles into the Chop Suey for a hearty and filling meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make Chop Suey ahead of time?
A: While Chop Suey is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and stir-fry them just before serving.
Q: Can I freeze Chop Suey?
A: Yes, you can freeze Chop Suey, but the texture of some vegetables may change after freezing and thawing. Freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months, and reheat thoroughly before serving.
Q: What’s the difference between Chop Suey and Chow Mein?
A: The main difference is that Chow Mein is made with noodles, while Chop Suey is typically served with rice. Chow Mein also usually has a drier sauce compared to the thicker, saucier Chop Suey.
Conclusion
Chinese Chop Suey is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is simple to follow and yields fantastic results every time. The combination of fresh vegetables, tender meat, and a flavorful sauce is sure to become a family favorite.